The Knicks Need An Answer on Defense

(Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)

The New York Knicks are currently sliding on a five game losing streak and are now two games under .500. There was a point in the season when the Knicks were third in the east. They are now tied in ninth place, with a 16-18 record.

The Knicks have also suffered a few injuries with Carmelo Anthony, Derrick Rose, Kristaps Porzingis, Joakim Noah, Courtney Lee, Kyle O’Quinn, and Lance Thomas all missing some time this season because of minor injuries. But that cant excuse the way they have been playing lately.

The offense has struggled and can get stagnant at times. That will happen when you have three players who very gifted offensively and can create their own shot. But the problem with this team is not offense.

It’s the defense.

It doesn’t matter how great you are on offense, if you can’t stop anyone on the other end of the floor, you won’t win a lot of games. The Knicks have been absolutely terrible on defense during this losing streak. Most recently giving up 115 points at home to the Orlando Magic, who only average a little over 99 points a game.

The Knicks need to find a way to be consistent on that end of the floor. If they constantly have to play catch up in every game, that puts a lot of pressure on the offense to score points.

I don’t know if it’s the players or the defensive scheme, but something is not working. The Knicks have to find an answer fast before this season gets away from them. Things can get ugly fast in New York. Thankfully, being in the East, if they straighten up and get back on track, playoffs are still a big possibility.